Caseplays

Caseplays is a term used to describe a format for presenting and exploring case studies through interactive, playable simulations. In a caseplay, a user encounters a real-world scenario presented as a narrative with a set of choices or actions that influence the outcome. The format blends case-based learning with interactive fiction and simulation, enabling users to experiment with strategies and observe consequences in a controlled environment.

Origin and scope: The term emerged in discussions of educational technology and media design in the early 2020s as educators sought more engaging ways to study complex cases. While not a formal standard, caseplays have been used in academic simulations, corporate training programs, and some journalistic or documentary projects to convey causal relationships and decision impact.

Design and mechanics: A typical caseplay offers a concise vignette, multiple decision points, and branching outcomes. Interactions may include manipulating variables, negotiating with virtual actors, or executing procedural tasks. Feedback comes through outcomes, analytics, and guided debrief prompts to highlight alternative paths and trade-offs.

Benefits and limitations: Caseplays can boost engagement, deepen understanding of cause and effect, and support deliberate practice. They require careful instructional design to avoid oversimplification and must be accessible across devices and assistive technologies. They may demand substantial development resources relative to traditional case presentations.

See also: interactive fiction, branching narrative, case study, simulation-based learning, scenario-based learning.